ISLAMABAD: Rising star Mohammad Shoaib produced a breathtaking performance to become the first Pakistani in 19 years to reach the final of an ITF Futures event, dismantling China’s Fenming Meng in a one-sided semifinal at the PTF Complex courts on Saturday.
Shoaib delivered a masterclass in precision and dominance, cruising to a 6-1, 6-1 victory in what turned into a completely one-sided affair. The young Pakistani left his opponent bewildered with a flawless display of aggressive baseline play, sharp movement, and remarkable composure, much to the delight of an electrified home crowd.
The feat marks a significant breakthrough for Pakistan tennis, recalling the golden run of 2007 when Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi and Aqeel Khan captured back-to-back ITF Futures titles in Kuwait and India, respectively. Since then, Pakistani players have struggled to make a mark on the international circuit, even with hosting of Futures events at home.
Shoaib will face Russia’s Nikita Ianin in the men’s singles final, scheduled for Sunday at 12 PM. Ianin booked his spot in the title clash with a solid 6-4, 6-4 victory over Sweden’s Arvid Nordquist in the second semifinal.
Adding further glory to the hosts, Pakistan’s duo of Muhammad Abid Ali Khan Akbar and Muzammil Murtaza clinched the doubles title, ending a nine-year wait for a home victory in the category. In a thrilling all-Pakistani final, they overcame seasoned campaigners Aqeel Khan and Barkatullah 6-2, 2-6, 10-7 to lift the trophy.
Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) President Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi, lauded the achievements of Shoaib, Abid, and Muzammil.
“This is a truly historic and proud moment for Pakistan tennis,” Aisam said. “Seeing a Pakistani player reach an ITF Futures final after nearly two decades is something very special—not just for the player but for the entire nation. Hosting international tournaments at home is beginning to bear fruit, and it is encouraging to see our players rise to the occasion.”
He further emphasized that the PTF’s vision behind staging international events in Pakistan is to provide local players exposure, ATP ranking opportunities, and a pathway into the professional circuit.
“The success of Abid and Muzammil in doubles is equally commendable. Their victory reflects dedication, teamwork, and the hard work our players are consistently putting in,” he added.
